Mercedes Five and Dime  (Audio CD) 
by Moist and Cedes 5

Two of the best tracks, "Mike Hammer" and "Liberation", are not on the U.S. version, but a revamped, Y2K version of their 1994 breakthrough song "Push" is included. Still, their love for one-word song titles notwithstanding, one might be surprised that this album is actually a Moist album. It explores new and interesting territory, and it does so with flair and creativity.

My only complaints are twofold. One, all too often it sounds like the band found a rhythm that worked and stuck with it throughout most of the album. Two, and this is minor, after listening to albums like Silver and Creature, one sometimes wishes Mercedes would blow up the speakers once in a while. If I could give this album 3.5 stars, I would. Until that is possible, I'll pool my half star with the half star that other 3.5 reviewer gave and make this a 4-star review.

2 of 4 found the following review helpful:

pleasantly bland  Jun 27, 2000
I've been interested in hearing these guys for a while, as I really enjoyed Little Songs, the album Moist singer David Usher released a year or so ago. I must say I'm disappointed. It's just another widescreen, "alternative" rock album that sounds like it was made to get on the radio, rather than for emotional or artistic expression. It's extremely well-crafted but boring.

However, if you're a fan of bands like Matchbox 20 and whoever it is that sings that annoying "Whatever Makes You Happy" song, you'll probably eat this up.

What's Gone Can Always Be Replaced  Jun 26, 2000
Review: First their reputation: Moist a heavy rock outfit from Canada combine strong use of guitars and introspective religious based lyrics. Enter Mercedes Five And Dime a departure from the group's louder previous works. Gone is the thunderous rock sounds replaced by a mellower low key (almost pop like) movement. While the lyrics remain focused on spiritual topics, from God to guilt to death, the group's energy is expended exploring new sonic territories. Clearly more comfortable in the studio they are willing to take more chances and experiment sonically. Prominent experiments include heavy uses of synthesizers, loops, and hooks. Sometimes the experiments are effective as on Underground or Fish. Other times they leave the listener wanting as on Mike Hammer. On the whole Moist's new sound is pleasing but different. Mercedes Five and Dime may create a wider appeal for the band but new fans will be shocked to discover Moist's previous rockier noisier recordings.

2 of 2 found the following review helpful:

Moist is awesome  Jun 13, 2000
This album rocks. From the good melody of breathe to the great guitar on push. This album rocks. I think it's one of the best they have put out. They have matured and it is certainly audible in this album.

Refreshing  Jun 11, 2000
As with every Moist album you get a mix of styles and feelings from the artists. I would rank this as a great car-trip album. You can sing to it and it keeps your heart pumping.